The delayed approval process is not likely to bog down construction this summer, Alaska Transportation Commissioner Ryan Anderson told lawmakers.
State Government
Alaska lawmakers chop budget for Dunleavy’s ‘statehood defense’
Rep. Andy Josephson, a member of the House Finance Committee, said he had concerns about the effort and “whether some of it is waste.”
Alaska House lawmakers continue budget work, with few changes so far to draft spending plan
Committee votes to increase public radio funding, cut gas pipeline salaries and add money for a youth detox program.
After revisions, Federal Highway Administration approves most of Alaska’s transportation plan
In an extraordinary action, the agency rejected the state’s first submission, citing 24 pages of flaws with the $5.6 billion plan.
Lawmakers clash over Permanent Fund dividend amount as House debates budget
Lawmakers are hoping to pass the operating budget out of the House by mid-April. Senators hope to finalize the budget by the closing days of the session in mid-May.
Dunleavy signs bill increasing internet speeds at many Alaska public schools
House Bill 193 increases the state funding match for a federal grant program that pays for internet access.
Republican lawmakers abruptly cancel hearing on Alaska prison deaths over legal concerns
Republican lawmakers cited concerns about an ongoing wrongful death lawsuit against the state in which the ACLU of Alaska is co-counsel.
Legislature relaunches Alaska Children’s Caucus
The new caucus is focused on providing support to children from birth to adulthood.
Senate passes fast-tracked rural school broadband bill, Dunleavy promises quick signature
The bill increases the amount of state money provided to school districts to purchase broadband service.
Alaska House takes step toward raising age of consent to 18
A bipartisan majority of the House approved the measure as an amendment to a bill that would require shelters and state service providers to screen minors for signs of sexual exploitation.